Peer Review Policy

Ensuring Rigorous and Transparent Peer Review

The Journal of Sports Medicine and Therapy (JSMT) is committed to upholding the highest standards of scientific integrity through a robust peer review process. Every submission undergoes a detailed evaluation to ensure its originality, relevance, accuracy, and contribution to the field of sports medicine, rehabilitation, and athletic performance.

By implementing a structured and transparent review system, we aim to advance sports science research and provide valuable insights for clinicians, researchers, and sports professionals.

Peer Review Process

All submitted manuscripts are subject to a double-blind peer review, ensuring a fair and unbiased evaluation. The process includes the following steps:

  1. Initial Assessment: The editorial team screens submissions for journal scope, formatting compliance, and originality.
  2. Reviewer Selection: Manuscripts are assigned to **two or more subject matter experts** in sports medicine, physical therapy, or rehabilitation sciences.
  3. Anonymous Review: Both authors and reviewers remain anonymous to ensure an impartial evaluation.
  4. Feedback and Recommendations: Reviewers assess scientific validity, methodology, and clarity, providing constructive feedback.
  5. Revisions and Resubmission: Authors may be asked to revise their manuscript based on reviewer suggestions.
  6. Final Decision: The editorial board makes a decision based on peer reviewer recommendations.
  7. Publication: Accepted manuscripts receive a **DOI for permanent reference** and are published online.

Evaluation Criteria

Each manuscript is assessed based on the following:

  • Scientific Rigor: Sound methodology, clear study design, and reproducible results.
  • Clinical Relevance: Impact on sports medicine, rehabilitation, or athletic performance.
  • Innovation: Novelty of findings and potential contributions to the field.
  • Ethical Compliance: Adherence to research ethics and human/animal study guidelines.
  • Presentation: Clarity, coherence, and adherence to journal formatting.

Reviewer Responsibilities

Reviewers play a critical role in maintaining the journal's high standards. They are expected to:

  • Provide objective, unbiased, and constructive evaluations.
  • Identify methodological concerns and ethical issues.
  • Offer suggestions for improving the manuscript.
  • Maintain confidentiality and declare any conflicts of interest.

Editorial Decision Outcomes

Based on the peer review process, the following editorial decisions may be made:

  • Accepted: The manuscript is deemed suitable for publication.
  • Minor Revisions: Small improvements are requested before final acceptance.
  • Major Revisions: Substantial modifications are required for reconsideration.
  • Rejection: The manuscript does not meet the journal’s quality standards.

Authors will receive detailed feedback to help enhance their research for future publication.

Appeals and Disputes

Authors have the right to appeal editorial decisions by providing a well-reasoned response to reviewer critiques. Appeals are reviewed by the editorial board for a final decision.

Commitment to Ethical Peer Review

The Journal of Sports Medicine and Therapy follows the ethical guidelines established by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) to ensure fairness, transparency, and academic integrity in peer review.

For any queries regarding the peer review process, please contact our editorial office at [email protected].